Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not come with air conditioning units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without the need for ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room, so they are not suitable for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since windows can be easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the excess space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide across rails and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. Consider whether the room is located in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives plenty of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay off over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct can be run through an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units won’t cool well and can be worn out more quickly than.
They are mostly in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Using a portable AC in a single or multiple rooms can help reduce the load on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The best portable units include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on humidity, which is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as remote controls to make the operation simpler. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out through the other hose. This significantly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. This feature could cost more, but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t want to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cooled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models, so you can cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy year-round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for many spaces like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your power bills significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, which saves on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition with a highly efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma and maintain your condo’s comfort throughout the season. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.